Why is Sardines in tomato sauce classified as processed (NOVA 3) and what specific additives does it contain?

Canning and the addition of a tomato-based sauce place the product in the NOVA 3 category; typical additives include salt, tomato puree, vegetable oil, citric acid as a preservative, and sometimes glucose syrup or stabilisers to maintain texture.

How does the sugar and salt content in this product affect a diabetic or hypertensive diet?

The sugar level is low at 0.9 g per 100 g, making it suitable for diabetic meal planning, while the moderate salt amount (0.97 g per 100 g) should be accounted for in a hypertension‑friendly diet but does not exceed typical limits for a single serving.

Is the fish in this product a concern for people with fish allergies, and does it contain any other common allergens?

Yes, sardines are the primary ingredient and constitute a major fish allergen; the product does not list other common allergens such as soy, gluten, or nuts, but consumers with severe fish allergies should avoid it.

Alva

Sardines in tomato sauce

Fish Meat Eggs

Product Insights

The product is canned sardines in tomato sauce, belonging to the Fish Meat Eggs group and marketed in the United Kingdom. It carries a Nutri‑Score of C and is classified as a NOVA 3 processed food, offering high protein (16 g per 100 g) and low sugars, but it is relatively high in total fat (10.5 g) and saturated fat (3.8 g). Salt content is moderate (0.97 g per 100 g) and the calorie count (164 kcal) exceeds the typical average for similar canned fish, indicating both nutritional strengths and drawbacks.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

moderate

Saturated Fat

moderate

Sugars

low

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g/ml

Energy Kcal164 kcal

Fat10.5 g

Saturated Fat3.8 g

Omega 3 Fat0.9 g

Carbohydrates1.3 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average canned sardine product, this offering contains markedly more total and saturated fat, far less salt and sugars, and slightly lower protein.

84%

35%

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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Sardines in tomato sauce.

The Fishmonger